La Porte ISD observes Veterans Day with variety of ceremonies

At La Porte High School, the LPHS Band performed opening music and a musical tribute to the Armed Forces, and the JROTC Color Guard presented the colors. Cadet Major William Lowden led the Pledge of Allegiance. The LPHS Choir and American Sign Language class performed the national anthem and “Flanders Field.”

Carlin Grammer, principal, and Col. Heber Olguin, commander of the JROTC, made opening remarks, and the keynote speaker was Dr. Robert Garcia, a Vietnam veteran. Garcia recognized La Porte Mayor Louis Rigby, who served in the U.S. Air Force, for his longtime service to the community. He was presented with a flag that was flown over the U.S. Capitol, made possible by Congressman Brian Babin’s Office.

Cadet/Lt. Col. Nathaniel George, JROTC battalion commander, and Ellena Castro, Student Council president, also made remarks and presented the memorial wreath. Cadet/Pvt. Anthony Sommer played “Taps” as the wealth was presented, and JROTC cadets unfurled a large American flag on the opposite side of the stadium. LPHS Chatos dance team members and cheerleaders presented flowers to the veterans in attendance.

Ceremonies were also held for veterans at College Park Elementary on Nov. 9 and at Leo A. Rizzuto, Jennie Reid and Heritage Elementary schools on Nov. 10. Students brought along parents, grandparents, other relatives and friends who are veterans to be recognized during the events.

Featured photo: Dr. Garcia, who was the guest speaker, presented La Porte Mayor Louis Rigby a flag that had been flown over the U.S. Capitol, made possible by U.S. Rep. Brian Babin’s office.